Windrush Day 2020
Monday 22 June marks Windrush Day in the UK; on this day in 1948 several hundred people arrived from the Caribbean to start a new life in Britain. Passengers of the Empire Windrush, their children and grandchildren have played a vital role in creating a new concept of what it means to be British, becoming some of the pioneers of today’s multi- cultural society. Windrush Day encourages us to celebrate companionship and community, and challenge racism, prejudice and discrimination.
Although many events have been cancelled or moved online for this year’s Windrush Day, we are still marking the day this year by attending events, supporting friends and partners, and going on the radio. Here’s an overview of events in the week to discuss, celebrate and mark the huge contribution of the Windrush generation and their descendants.
ECDP on BBC Essex
Tuesday 23 June 7.15pm
Tune in to Essex Voices, the weekly radio programme on BBC Essex that focuses on Communit, for Essex Cultural Diversity Project Special. We will be discussing Windrush and celebrating the lives, achievements and culture of the Windrush generation and their descendants. Creative Director Indi Sandhu will be joined by Lawrence Walker from Black History Month Colchester; Southend-based writer, producer, curator and director Jo Melville; and artist EVEWRIGHT, who will tell us more about Tilbury Bridge Walkway of Memories, a unique outdoor site specific art installation at Tilbury Cruise Terminal Essex, which will take place between September – October 2020.
Windrush Legacy Film
As part of our Windrush Project last year we created a legacy film, telling the story of the Windrush, featuring historical images and photographs, shots of Tilbury Docks and Windrush events across Essex, and specially invited speakers. This includes artist Evewright, talking about his recent project Caribbean Takeaway Takeover which recorded the stories of Caribbean elders and part of the Windrush Generation, using art installation, photography and sound. evewright.com
Windrush Legacy Film from Essex Cultural Diversity Project on Vimeo.
ECDP Recommends
Events taking place for Windrush Day 2020
Windrush Presence 2020 – Digital Launch Event
Reminiscence and Reflections on the impact of Windrush to our collective memory and national cultural life.
Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is pleased to host a Windrush Day Online Event to celebrate the contribution of the Windrush generation to British social, cultural and political life. The event includes a talk from Patrick Vernon, social commentator, campaigner and cultural historian, followed by a panel discussion with Dr Bert Williams MBE and Shirley Williams. Featuring performances performed and curated by the members of the Cultural Heritage Network in Brighton.
Find out more and book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk